Vacuum demand flow valve

ABSTRACT

A valve is disclosed for dispensing a flowable material. The valve has a first chamber ( 40 ) at a first pressure wherein said first chamber ( 40 ) defines an outlet ( 28 ) in communication with said first chamber ( 40 ). A second chamber ( 42 ) is at a second pressure. The valve has a stop ( 18 ) indexed against a third pressure, operating to selectively place the first chamber ( 40 ) into communication with the second chamber ( 42 ). The stop ( 18 ) is operative to connect the second chamber ( 42 ) to said first chamber ( 40 ) when the first pressure is less than the third pressure.

DESCRIPTION

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to valves used in conjunctionwith fluid containers or tubing, and more specifically to a valveassociated with a fluid container and being actuated by a vacuum.

2. Background Prior Art

Fluid containers are widely used throughout the world and come in manyforms. Such fluid containers are made from a variety of materials andare used for numerous purposes. For example, containers are commonlyused to contain fluids such as water, soft drinks, sports drinks,alcoholic beverages and the like for individual consumer use andconsumption. Fluid containers are also widely used in other applicationssuch as in a medical setting. For example, fluid containers are used inhospitals to provide nutritional fluids to patients who cannot eat solidfood. Also fluid containers contain a variety of material used inindustry and various mechanical arts such as engines and the like.

A drawback to using such containers is the contents of the container canbe easily spilled and, therefore, wasted. Not only are the contents lostbut fluid spills can damage the surface the fluid contacts. Spilling offluid contents is a particularly common occurrence for patients in ahospital setting. The patients can be under sedation or other medicationthat causes drowsiness or disorientation. The patients can also oftendrift into an involuntary unconscious state while consuming thenutritional products. This can result in spillage of the nutritionalproduct over the patients' bedding requiring changing of the bedding andcleaning of the spillage. FIG. 1 shows a variety of settings where fluidspills can occur. For example, fluids contained in drink pouches ordrink boxes popular with children can be spilled through the strawsupplied with the containers. Additionally, one is familiar with theproblems arising with fluid spills in an industrial setting, wherein thespill of a caustic or dangerous chemical causes significant clean-upexpense as well as placing workers in a potentially hazardous position.

Some fluid containers may be supplied with a closure such as a threadedcap. Such closures, however, normally must be open and/or closedmanually by hand. This makes it difficult for consumers to use duringcertain activities such as running or cycling, or if consumers arecarrying several other items that cannot be put down. Other closureshave been developed that can be automatically actuated but are difficultto use. Such containers are also not economical to manufacture to beused with disposable fluid containers.

The present invention is provided to solve these and other problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a vacuum demand flow valve capable ofdispensing a flowable material. In one preferred embodiment, the vacuumdemand flow valve is attached to a drink container.

According to one aspect of the invention, a vacuum demand flow valve hasa member subject to a first force operative to keep the valve closed.The member is sensitive to an index pressure. The valve has an outlet ata second pressure, the index pressure provides a second force inopposition to said first force when a differential between the secondpressure and the index pressure is provided to open the valve when thesecond pressure is sufficiently less than the index pressure to overcomethe first force.

According to another aspect of the invention, the valve provides aflowable material delivery device. The device has a first chamber at afirst pressure wherein the first chamber defines an outlet incommunication with said first chamber. The device has a second chamberat a second pressure at least substantially equal to the first pressure.The device has a valve member, indexed against a third pressure,operating to selectively place the first chamber into communication withthe second chamber. The stop is operative to connect the second chamberto said first chamber when the first pressure is less than the thirdpressure.

According to another aspect of the invention, a vacuum demand flow valvehas a housing defining a passageway for a flowable material to passtherethrough. The passageway has a first volume when in a first positionwherein the flowable material is not allowed to pass through thepassageway. The passageway has a second volume less than the firstvolume when in a second position wherein the flowable material isallowed to pass through the passageway. The passageway is moveable fromthe first position to the second position by a vacuum applied throughthe passageway, wherein the difference between the volumes associateswith the first position and the second position providing for theflowable material to retreat from the outlet of the valve and thereforebe retained in the passageway.

According to another aspect of the invention, the housing has a portmember defining an external opening in communication with thepassageway. The port member is adapted to be covered by a mouth of auser to apply the vacuum through the passageway. When the vacuum isapplied, a force is applied to the housing in a first direction inresponse to the vacuum thereby placing the passageway in the secondposition, wherein flowable material flows through the passageway in asecond direction. The vacuum can also be applied by a syringe or a pumpin communication with the passageway.

According to another aspect of the invention, a volume transition in thepassageway between the second position and the first position causesflowable material to retreat into the passageway. An outlet is incommunication with the passageway wherein the volume transition causesthe flowable material to retreat from the outlet.

According to another aspect of the invention, the port member has anorifice. The orifice is sized such that surface tension associated withthe flowable substance across the orifice prevents the flowable materiallocated within the passageway from passing through the orifice when thevacuum is removed from the passageway. The port member can also have aventuri structure defining the external opening.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a valve has a portmember defining an outer opening. The valve has a base member extendingfrom the port member wherein the base member has an inner opening. Adiaphragm extends between and is connected to the port member and thebase member wherein a passageway is defined between the base member anddiaphragm. The passageway is in communication with the outer opening andthe inner opening. A stop member is connected to the diaphragm and has aplug that obscures the inner opening. The diaphragm is flexible from afirst position wherein the passageway has a first volume and a secondposition wherein the passageway has a second volume. The plug isdisplaced from the inner opening in response to the movement of thediaphragm to the second position wherein a flowable substance can passthrough the inner opening and passageway and outer opening.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the valve is connectedto a container having at least one flexible sidewall, a portion of theflexible sidewall comprises the diaphragm. An end of the base member isconnected to an underside surface of the flexible sidewall.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, a diaphragm isprovided which is flexible so as to be responsive to a vacuum appliedthrough the passageway. The diaphragm can also be flexible in responseto an external force applied to the diaphragm to deflect the diaphragm.

According to another aspect of the invention, the housing has a portmember defining an external opening in communication with the passagewaywherein the port member is adapted to be covered by a user's mouth toapply the vacuum.

According to another aspect of the invention, the vacuum demand flowvalve is attached in an opening of a fluid container.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, a method of deliveringa flowable material is disclosed. A first chamber is provided definingan outlet. A second chamber is provided that acts as a fluid reservoir.A valve index pressure is also provided. An opening is providedconnecting the first chamber and the second chamber, and a valve ispositioned in the opening. A first pressure is applied to the firstchamber, the first pressure being less than the index pressure, whereinthe valve moves from a closed position to an open position whereinflowable material flows through the outlet.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method of delivering aflowable material provides a housing defining a passageway for theflowable material to pass therethrough. The passageway has a firstvolume when in a first position wherein the flowable material is notallowed to pass through the passageway. The passageway has a secondvolume less than the first volume when in a second position wherein theflowable material is allowed to pass through the passageway. A vacuum isapplied through the passageway wherein the passageway is moveable fromthe first position to the second position wherein the return of thepassageway from the second position to the first position serves toretain the flowable material within the passageway by causing theflowable material to retreat up the passageway.

Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thefollowing specification taken in conjunction with the followingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a plurality of schematic views illustrating problemsencountered with prior art fluid containers;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a vacuum demand flow valve of thepresent invention attached to a flexible fluid container;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 2 showing removalof a tamper evident strip;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the valve and container wherein a cap ofthe valve is removed;

FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve and container, thevalve being shown in a closed position;

FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve and container, thevalve being placed in an open position by a user;

FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve and container, thevalve returned to a closed position;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the valve of the present invention; and

FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve and container, thevalve adapted to be placed in an open position via a syringe;

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of thevacuum demand flow valve of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of thevacuum demand flow valve of the present invention and the container, thevalve being shown in a closed position;

FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve and container ofFIG. 11, the valve being placed in an open position by a user;

FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve and container ofFIG. 11, the valve returned to a closed position;

FIGS. 14 a-d are cross-sectional views showing assembly of the valve ofFIG. 10;

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of thevacuum demand flow valve of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the valve of FIG. 15, the valvebeing shown in a closed position;

FIGS. 17 a-c are cross-sectional views showing assembly of the valve ofFIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of thevacuum demand flow valve of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the valve of FIG. 18, the valvebeing shown in a closed position;

FIGS. 20 a-d are cross-sectional views showing assembly of the valve ofFIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the vacuum demandflow valve of the present invention attached to a flexible fluidcontainer;

FIG. 22 is a partial perspective view of the container of FIG. 21showing removal of a tamper evident strip;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the valve and container wherein a capof the valve is removed;

FIG. 24 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve and container ofFIG. 21, the valve being shown in a closed position;

FIG. 25 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve and container ofFIG. 21, the valve being placed in an open position by a user;

FIG. 26 is a schematic view of a user consuming a fluid from a containerhaving a vacuum demand flow valve of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is perspective view of a vacuum demand flow valve of the presentinvention attached to a fluid container, the valve having anindicia-bearing surface;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another vacuum demand flow valve of thepresent invention attached to a fluid container, the valve having anindicia-bearing surface;

FIGS. 29 a-c are schematic views showing various uses of the vacuumdemand flow valve of the present invention;

FIG. 30 is a schematic view showing another use of the vacuum demandflow valve of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is a schematic view showing another use of the vacuum demandflow valve of the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a schematic view showing another use of the vacuum demandflow valve of the present invention;

FIGS. 33 a-b are schematic views showing additional uses of the vacuumdemand flow valve of the present invention;

FIGS. 34 a-d are schematic views showing additional uses of the vacuumdemand flow valve of the present invention;

FIG. 35 is a schematic view showing another use of the vacuum demandflow valve of the present invention; and

FIGS. 36 a-b are schematic views showing additional uses of the vacuumdemand flow valve of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While this invention is susceptible to embodiments in many differentforms, there are shown in the drawings and will herein be described indetail, preferred embodiments of the invention with the understandingthat the present disclosures are to be considered as exemplifications ofthe principles of the invention and are not intended to limit the broadaspects of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.

FIG. 2 discloses a vacuum demand flow valve, generally referred to withthe reference numeral 10, attached to a flexible fluid container 11. Itis understood that the valve 10 can be used with various types ofcontainers that contain a flowable material or substance. Thus, theshape of the container 11 can be arbitrary. The structure of the valve10 will first be described followed by a description of the operation ofthe valve 10. Other embodiments of the valve will also be described.

As shown in FIGS. 2-7, the valve 10 generally includes a housing 12. Thevalve 10 also includes a diaphragm 14, a stop 18, and a radiallyextensive plug 70 which, can be considered in combination to be a valvemember. Similarly, equivalent valve members shall be subsequently shownin other embodiments of the instant invention having differing referencenumerals. Also shown is a diaphragm cover 20 and a cap 21. The valve 10is adapted to be connected to the container 11. The container 11 may beformed as to have a first sidewall 22 and a second sidewall 24. Thevalve 10 allows for dispensing flowable materials from the container 11.The container 11 defines a reservoir for holding flowable materials. Asdiscussed in greater detail below, the diaphragm member 14 is a flexiblemember that can be actuated by a user through the use of a vacuumpressure or a positive, external force.

As shown in FIG. 5, the housing 12 has a generally tubular structuredefining a passageway 26 for a flowable material to pass therethrough.The housing 12 has a first opening 28 defining a valve outlet and asecond opening 30, or inlet opening 30 adapted to be in communicationwith the container 11. The passageway 26 is between the valve outlet 28and the inlet opening 30. The housing 12 further generally has an upperwall 32 and a lower wall 34. The walls 32,34 of the housing 12cooperatively define a first housing section 36 and a second housingsection 38. The first section 36 defines a first chamber 40 and thesecond section 38 defines a second chamber 42. In certain embodiments,the passageway 26 can only comprise the first chamber 40. The firstsection 36 has a port member 44 that has one end defining the firstopening 28 of the housing 12. The port member 44 is generally a tubularstructure and is sized such that, in an embodiment that is adapted to beuseable by a person directly, a user's mouth can fit comfortably overthe port member 44. Thus, the port member 44 can be considered amouthpiece for the user. In an embodiment that is adapted to be used inconjunction with a pump or a syringe, an appropriately shaped portmember would be supplied. The port member 44 also has an orifice 46having a lesser diameter than the remainder of the passageway 26. Thiswill be described in greater detail below. The orifice 46 could comprisea plurality of orifices. It is understood that the nomenclature of thefirst and second sections and chambers can be reversed.

The housing 12 further has an internal, or intermediate wall 48extending between the upper wall 32 and the lower wall 34. Theintermediate wall 48 has an inner opening 50. The inner opening 50 canbe considered a second opening. The intermediate wall 48 further has anunderside surface 52. The intermediate wall 48 generally divides thehousing 12 to define the first chamber 40 and the second chamber 42. Thefirst chamber 40 can be considered a downstream side of the valve 10 andthe second chamber 42 can be considered an upstream side of the valve.The inner opening 50 will be in communication with the fluid container11 via the second chamber 42. The second chamber 42 can include thefluid container 11.

The upper wall 32 has a generally circular opening 54 defined by anannular rim 56. The circular opening 54 is adapted to receive thediaphragm 14 to be described in greater detail below. The annular rim 56has a lip 58. A front portion of the annular rim 56 cooperates with avertical wall 60 of the port member 44 to define a groove 62.

As further shown in FIG. 5, the diaphragm 14 is a resilient, deflectablemember that in one preferred embodiment, is generally circular in shape.The diaphragm 14 has a central portion 64 and an annular peripheral edge66 defining a flange 68. The diaphragm 14 is connected to the housing 12and is received by the circular opening 54. The flange 68 cooperateswith the lip 58 of the annular rim 56. The diaphragm 14 is slightlyunder-sized as compared to the annular rim 56 wherein the elastomericproperties of the diaphragm 14 ensure a seal between the diaphragm 14and the rim 56. Once connected, the diaphragm 14 can be considered aportion of the housing 12 that is flexible and deflectable from a firstposition to a second position to open the valve 10 as described below aswell as being capable of being biased towards the first position due toeither the structural properties of the assembly or the mechanicalproperties of the diaphragm 14. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, thediaphragm 14 comprises the flexible portion of the housing 12.

As also shown in FIG. 5, the stop member 18 is generally a plug memberhaving a flange 70 at one end. The stop member 18 depends from a centralportion 64 of the diaphragm 14 and extends through the internal opening50. The flange 70 abuts the underside 52 of the intermediate wall 48 todefine a closed valve position. The flange 70 can be considered a plugthat is radially extensive from the stop 18 and sized to close the inneropening 50. The plug, or flange 70 can be considered to be locatedtoward an upstream side of the valve from the stop. The upstream side ofthe valve can be considered generally at the second chamber 42 and thedownstream side of the valve can be generally considered at the firstchamber 40. In a preferred embodiment, the stop member 18 and thediaphragm 14 can be integrally molded together so as to form the valvemember aforedescribed. As described in greater detail below, theresiliency of the diaphragm 14 biases the stop member 18 against theinternal opening 50 to define a closed valve position. The flange 70abuts the underside surface 52 of the internal wall 48.

In one preferred embodiment, the valve 10 utilizes the diaphragm cover20. The diaphragm cover 20 is positioned over the diaphragm 14. Thediaphragm cover 20 has a collar 65 that fits around the flange 68 of thediaphragm 14. The diaphragm cover 20 can fit within the groove 62 at afront portion of the valve 10. The diaphragm cover 20 is sized to assistin the compression of the diaphragm 14 around the annular rim 56. Thediaphragm cover 20 helps protect the valve 10 from accidentalactivation. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, if desired, the valve 10 can alsobe equipped with the cap 21 that is press-fit over the port member 44. Atamper evident sealing member 72 can also be included. The tamperevident sealing member 72 seals the cap 21 to the housing 12 and gives avisual indication of whether the valve 10 has been tampered with orpreviously manipulated. It is understood that the valve components canbe connected through a variety of processes including radio frequency orultrasonic welding as well as solvent bonding or other methods asappropriate for the materials used.

As discussed, in one preferred embodiment, the valve 10 is attached to afluid container 11. The container may either be formed from a single webor may have a flexible first sidewall 22 and flexible second sidewall24. In the configuration and as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 4, the valve 10is inserted between peripheral edges of the sidewalls 22,24. The upperwall 32 is generally connected to the first sidewall and the lower wall34 is generally connected to the second sidewall 24.

As shown in FIG. 5, the container 11 is shown in a configuration havinga single circumferential sidewall as may be formed by blow molding andthe like.

Prior to operation of the valve 10 the cap 21 is secured to the housing12 by the tamper evident strip 72. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the tamperevident strip 70 is peeled away and the cap 21 removed to expose theport member 44.

FIGS. 5-7 disclose operation of the valve 10 In an initial state, and asshown in FIG. 5, the valve 10 is in a closed position wherein the stopmember 18 is biased against the underside surface 52 to close the inneropening 50. The valve member is subject to a first force operative tokeep the valve 10 closed. In this first position, the first chamber 40of the passageway 26 has a first volume V1. An external surface 15 ofthe diaphragm 14, and therefore the combination of the diaphragm 14, thestop 18, and the flange 70, which in combination can be referred to as avalve member, is generally subject to, and is sensitive to, an indexpressure PI. The index pressure could be, for example, ambient pressurewith the cap 20 being vented, or some other pressure resident in theinterstice between the diaphragm 14 and the cap 20. The valve member isindexed against this index pressure PI. The first chamber 40 is alsogenerally subjected to a pressure P1 which could be approximately equalto or greater than the index pressure PI.

The second chamber 42 and the container 11 may also be at an ambientpressure, or at some pressure substantially at or above the indexpressure PI. The pressure in the second chamber 42 and container 11 maybe referred to as PC. The pressure in the container 11 will not besubstantially less than the pressure in the first chamber 40. As shownin FIG. 6, a user places their mouth over the port member 44 and reducesthe pressure through the first chamber 40 of the passageway 26. Thisreduced pressure can be referred to as P2. The partial vacuum provides apressure less than the index pressure. As shown in FIG. 6, the vacuumacts on a lower surface 74 of the diaphragm 14 causing the indexpressure on the upper surface of the diaphragm to apply a force on thediaphragm 14 equal to the difference between the index pressure and thepressure of the partial vacuum times the area of the diaphragm 14,drawing it downwards. This moves the stop member 18 downwards in thedirection of arrow A, and into the second chamber 42 towards thecontainer 11. The flange 70 is spaced away from the inner opening 50thus opening the valve 10. This occurs when the force applied overcomesa first force associated with the diaphragm 14 that maintains the stopmember 18 to close the internal opening 50. This force may be,preferedly, a resilient spring force associated with the diaphragmstructure or, in other embodiments, be due to an index pressuresubstantially below the initial pressure in the first chamber acting onthe diaphragm 14; or a force due to pressure in the container 11 actingon the area of plug 70; or may be applied by an external means asexemplified by the spring 164 in FIG. 18. In this second position, thefirst chamber 40 of the passageway 26 has a second volume V2. The secondvolume V2 is less than the first volume V1 as the diaphragm 14 is movedcloser to the intermediate wall 48. It is also understood the areabetween the diaphragm 14 and the cover 20 increases to a volume of V3 inthis position. In this position, the flowable material such as a drinkfluid, as shown, is allowed to flow from the container 11, through theinner opening 50 in the direction of arrow B, through the passageway 26and out the first opening 28 to be consumed by the user. Thus, when avacuum is applied, a force is applied to the housing 46 in a firstdirection (arrow A) in response to the vacuum thereby placing thepassageway 48 in the second position, wherein fluid flows through thepassageway in a second direction generally shown as arrow C in FIG. 6.Thus, when a differential between the second pressure and the indexpressure is provided to the valve member, the valve 10 opens when thesecond pressure is sufficiently less than the index pressure to overcomethe first force operative on the valve member. The container 11 isadapted to supply constant pressure when the valve 10 is open, such as aflexible container 11 or a rigid container having a vent. It isunderstood the valve 10 is operable even if the container 11 ispressurized.

It can be further understood that the valve member is subject to a firstforce, as described hereabove, operative to keep the valve 10 closed.The valve member, i.e., the combination of the diaphragm 14, the stop18, and the flange 70, supplies this biasing force as aforesaid. Thevalve member is sensitive to the index pressure. The outlet 28 of thevalve 10 is subject to a second pressure. The index pressure provides asecond force in opposition to the first force when a differentialbetween the second pressure and the index pressure is provided to openthe valve such that the second pressure is sufficiently less than theindex pressure, multiplied by the area of the valve member, to overcomethe first force. As shown in FIG. 6, the vacuum acts on a lower surface74 of the diaphragm 14 causing the index pressure on the upper surfaceof the diaphragm to apply a force on the diaphragm 14 equal to thedifference between the index pressure and the pressure of the partialvacuum times the area of the diaphragm 14, drawing it downwards. Thismoves the stop member 18 downwards in the direction of arrow A, and intothe second chamber 42 towards the container 11. The flange 70 is spacedaway from the inner opening 50 thus opening the valve 10. This occurswhen the second pressure is sufficiently less than the index pressurewherein the force applied overcomes the resilient spring force or othersources of the force associated with the diaphragm 14 that biases thestop member 18 to close the internal opening 50.

As shown in FIG. 7, once the vacuum is removed, the valve 10 returns tothe first or closed position. Thus, when the second pressure issubstantially equal to or greater than the index pressure, the valve 10closes. The resiliency of the diaphragm 14 biases the stop member 18against the underside surface 52 of the intermediate wall 48 to closethe inner opening 50 and therefore the valve 10. Fluid that passesthrough the port member 44, after the vacuum has been removed, isconsumed by the user. The change between the first volume V1 and thesecond volume V2 provides for an action that serves to withdraw thefluid from the outlet 28 back into the outlet passageway 29 such thatthe linear distance the fluid is withdrawn into the outlet passageway 29is equal to the difference between the volume V2 and the volume V1divided by the area of the outlet 28 which is sufficient to draw thefluid toward the passageway 26 and away from the outlet 28. Fluid thatremains in the passageway 26 at the reduced diameter orifice 46 when thevacuum is removed, however, does not drip from the valve 10. The orifice46 is sized in the port member 44 such that surface tension ST of thefluid across the orifice 46 maintains the fluid in the passageway 48once the vacuum is removed. The molecules of the fluid will experiencean inward force from the other fluid molecules wherein the fluid willact like an elastic sheet across the orifice 30. Molecules at the edgesof the orifice will be attracted to the surfaces of the housing 12defining the orifice 30. Thus, due to surface tension ST of the fluid,the fluid already in the passageway 26 cannot pass through the orifice46 until a vacuum is again applied.

It can be understood that in this valve configuration as disclosed inFIGS. 2-7, the second chamber 42 of the passageway 26 of the valve 10 isin communication with the container 11. The second chamber 42 caninclude the container 11. The stop member 18 and the inner opening 50can define a simple valve. In an initial state, the upper surface 15 ofthe diaphragm 14 is subject to an index pressure PI. In one embodiment,the index pressure PI can be ambient pressure. Also in the initialstate, the first chamber 40 of the passageway 26 could also be undersome different first pressure PI or the index pressure PI. The secondchamber 42 would be under a second pressure PC which also couldtypically be ambient pressure. The container 11 is also initially underthe container pressure PC. This pressure could be ambient pressure. Whena partial vacuum is applied, the first chamber 40 is now under a secondpressure P2 that is less than the index pressure PI. In this state, thevalve moves from a closed position to an open position wherein the fluidis allowed to flow through the outer opening 50. Thus, the valveoperates to selectively place the first chamber 40 into communicationwith the second chamber 42. Accordingly, a differential pressure isapplied across the diaphragm 14 causing the valve 10 to open and allowfluid to pass through the opening 50. In one preferred embodiment, thepressure differential occurs from ambient pressure, wherein the indexpressure is at ambient pressure and the housing chamber is subjected toa negative pressure. Thus, the valve 10 is actuated by applying apressure less than ambient pressure. It is understood that a pressuredifferential could also be applied from an initial pressure not equal toambient pressure. One could also consider the index pressure a thirdpressure wherein the first chamber is subject to a first pressure andthe second chamber is subject to a second pressure at leastsubstantially equal to the first pressure. The valve is indexed againstthe third pressure. The valve operates to selectively place the firstchamber into communication with the second chamber when the firstpressure is less than the third pressure, or index pressure. FIG. 8further illustrates the pressures, and forces associated with thepressures, that act on the valve member during operation of the valve10. The index pressure exerts an index force FI on an outer surface ofthe diaphragm 14. Prior to operation, the first chamber has a firstpressure P1 and a first force F1 acting on an inner surface of thediaphragm 14 serving to balance the remaining forces acting on thevalve. The container pressure PC and container force FC also acts on thevalve member at the plug 70. A biasing force FB also acts on the valvemember and is, in certain embodiments, supplied by the structure ofdiaphragm 14. When the first pressure P1 is reduced to a new pressureP2, a force F2 (less than F1) is applied to the diaphragm 14. Theresultant force acting on the diaphragm 14 to open the valve 10 can berepresented by the following vector formula: FR (resultantforce)=AD(PI−P2)−AP(PC)−FB wherein AD is the area of the diaphragm 14and AP is the area of the plug 70.

It is understood that the valve 10 can operate without utilizing thediaphragm cover 20. FIG. 8 discloses a simplified version of the valve10 wherein a diaphragm cover 20 is not used. The diaphragm 14 cancomprise a flexible portion of the housing 12. Upon actuation, thishousing portion would flex to move the stop member 18 away from theinner opening 50.

It is further understood that the vacuum to actuate the valve 10 istypically applied by a user reducing the pressure through the passageway26. The vacuum could also be applied by other means such as a syringe 51as shown in FIG. 9. A vacuum could also be applied by a pump or othermechanical means. Finally, it is understood that the designations of“first” and “second” with respect to the chambers, pressures and valvepositions can be interchanged.

In an alternative method of valve actuation, a user can depress thediaphragm 14 through the cover 20 to move the stop member 18 away fromthe inner opening 50. Fluid is then allowed to pass through thepassageway 26 and out the outer opening 28.

It is understood that the valve 10 can be incorporated into a tubing. Aportion of the tubing can be flexible and provide the diaphragm 14. Anopposite portion of the tubing can be provided with the opening 50 to becommunication with the container 11. The stop member 18 can be providedbetween the diaphragm 14 and opening 50.

It is further understood that the valve 10 could be constructed withmultiple chambers and diaphragms or connected to a manifold designed tobe in communication with separate chambers of a multi-chamberedcontainer. Different fluids, stored separately, could then be consumedtogether.

The valve components can be made from a variety of materials. Thematerials can be selected based on the intended use of the valve 10. Inone embodiment, such as the valve being used with drink containers, thevalve components can be made from a variety of polymers or otherstructurally suitable materials. Other materials are also possible. Thechoice of materials is only related to the fluid and use the valve is tobe applied to. For example, should this valve be used in the fuel oroxidizer supply section of a rocket engine with an injection pumpproviding a partial vacuum and the index pressure externally applied;the valve member and housing may be made out of stainless steel.

FIGS. 10-14 disclose another embodiment of the vacuum demand flow valveof the present invention, generally referred to with the referencenumeral 100. The vacuum demand flow valve 100 is similar to the valve 10disclosed in FIGS. 2-7 and similar elements will be referred to withidentical reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 11, the upper wall 32 ofthe housing 12 has the generally circular opening 54 defined by theannular rim 56. Proximate a front portion of the housing 12, the upperwall 32 has a first vertical wall 102. The first vertical wall 102cooperates with the annular rim 56 to define a first groove 104.Proximate a rear portion of the housing 12, the upper wall 32 has asecond vertical wall 106. The second vertical wall 106 cooperates withthe annular rim 56 to define a second groove 108. As discussedpreviously, the diaphragm 14 is connected to the annular rim 56 whereinthe flange 68 cooperates with the lip 58 of the annular rim 56. Thediaphragm cover 20 is positioned over the diaphragm 14 wherein thecollar 65 fits around the flange 68 of the diaphragm 14. The diaphragmcover 20 fits snugly within the first groove 104 and the second groove108. FIG. 12 shows the valve 100 in an open position wherein a partialvacuum has been applied through the passageway 26. It is understood thatthe stop 18 as shown in FIG. 12 is structured to allow flow through theinner opening 50 and out the outlet opening 28. In FIG. 13, the vacuumhas been removed wherein the valve 100 returns to a closed position asdiscussed above. The fluid is drawn back into the orifice wherein itwill not drip out of the valve 100.

FIGS. 10 and 14 disclose a slightly modified diaphragm cover/capassembly 110. In this design, the assembly 110 has a collar 112, a cap114 and a diaphragm cover 116. The collar 112 is connected to the cap114 by a tamper evident strip 118 similar to the tamper evident strip 72in FIG. 3. The diaphragm cover 116 is connected to the collar 112 by aflexible strap 120. FIGS. 14 a-d disclose a general assembly of thevalve 100. The diaphragm 14 is first connected to the housing 12 asdiscussed above. The cover/cap assembly 110 is then connected to thehousing 112. The collar 112 and cap 114 are slid over the port assembly44 of the housing 12. The diaphragm cover 116 is then pivoted andconnected over the diaphragm 14 as shown in FIG. 14 d. Prior tooperation of the valve 110, the tamper evident strip 118 can be tornaway to remove the cap 114 from the collar 112 to expose the port member44 of the housing 12. The valve 100 is operated as described above.

FIGS. 15-17 disclose another embodiment of the vacuum demand valve ofthe present invention, generally designated with the reference numeral130. In this embodiment, the port member of the housing is separated andconnected instead to the diaphragm member 14. As shown in FIGS. 15 and16, a port member 132 is integrally connected to a diaphragm 134. Acollar assembly 136 is provided having a collar 138, a housing 140 and adiaphragm cover 142. The housing 140 is connected to the collar 138 by afirst flexible strap 144. The diaphragm cover 142 is connected to thecollar 138 by a second flexible strap 146. The collar assembly 136 alsohas a tamper evident strip 148 connecting a cap 150 to the collar 138.FIGS. 17 a-c disclose a general assembly of the valve 130. The portmember 132 is inserted into the collar assembly 136. The housing 140 ispivoted about the first flexible strap 144 wherein the stop member 18connected to the diaphragm 134 is inserted into the internal opening ofthe housing 140. The port member 132 and diaphragm 134 are connected tothe annular rim 56 on the housing 140. The diaphragm cover 142 ispivoted about the second flexible strap 146 and connected over thediaphragm 134. The valve 130 is operated as described above.

FIGS. 18-20 disclose another embodiment of the vacuum demand valve ofthe present invention, generally designated with the reference numeral150. As shown in FIG. 18, the valve 150 has a diaphragm cover/capassembly 152. In this design, the assembly 152 has a collar 154, a cap156 and a diaphragm cover 158. The collar 154 is connected to the cap156 by a tamper evident strip 159 similar to the tamper evident strip 72in FIG. 3. The diaphragm cover 158 is connected to the collar 154 by aflexible strap 160. The valve 150 utilizes a housing 161 and a diaphragm162. The diaphragm 162 is biased towards a closed position by a spring164. The spring 164 is positioned around the stop member 18 wherein oneend abuts the intermediate wall of the housing 161 and another end abutsan underside surface of the diaphragm 162; FIGS. 20 a-d disclose ageneral assembly of the valve 150. The spring 164 is on the intermediatewall of the housing 161 and the diaphragm 162 connected to the housing162 via the annular rim 56. The housing 161 is inserted into theassembly 152 as shown in FIG. 20 c. The diaphragm cover 158 is thenpivoted via the flexible strap 160 and connected over the diaphragm 162.FIG. 19 shows the valve 150 utilizing a separate diaphragm cover 158similar to the valve construction shown in FIG. 11. The valve 150 isoperated as described above.

FIGS. 21-25 disclose yet another embodiment of the vacuum demand valveof the present invention. This valve, generally referred to with thereference numeral 200, is shown attached to a flexible fluid container211. It is understood that the valve 200 can be used with various typesof containers that contain a flowable material or substance. Thestructure of the valve 200 will first be described followed by adescription of the operation of the valve 200.

As shown in FIG. 24, the valve 200 generally includes a port member 212,a first member or diaphragm member 214, a second member or base member216, a stop member 218, a diaphragm cover 220 and a cap 221. The valve200 is adapted to be connected to the container 211 that has a firstsidewall 222 and a second sidewall 224. The valve 200 allows fordispensing flowable materials from the container 211. As discussed ingreater detail below, the diaphragm member 214 is a flexible member thatcan be actuated by a user through the use of a vacuum pressure or apositive, external force.

As further shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, the port member 212 is generally atubular structure and defines an outlet or outer opening 226. The portmember 212 is sized such that a user's mouth can fit comfortably overthe port member 212. In one preferred embodiment as shown in FIG. 23,the port member 212 has an elliptical shape. The port member 212 has adisk-shaped member 228 having an orifice 230 (FIG. 24).

The base member 216 is an elongated member that extends from a bottomportion of the port member 212. The base member 216 has a first end 232that extends from the port member 212. A second end 234 of the basemember 216 is connected to one end of the diaphragm 214 at anintermediate location 236 to be described in greater detail below. Thebase member 216 has an inner opening 238. The inner opening 238 will bein communication with the fluid container 211. The diaphragm 214 is aflexible member having one end 240 extending from an upper portion 242of the port member 212. The diaphragm 214 has a second end 244 that isconnected to the end 234 of the base member 216 at the intermediatelocation 236. As will be discussed in greater detail below, in onepreferred embodiment when the valve 200 is attached to a flexiblecontainer 211, the diaphragm 214 will comprise a portion of one of theflexible sidewalls 222. The base member 216 and diaphragm 214collectively comprise a housing 246 of the valve 200. A portion of thehousing 246 is flexible from a first position to a second position toopen the valve 200. In a preferred embodiment, the diaphragm 214comprises the flexible portion of the housing 246. The port member 212could also be included as part of the housing 246. The base member 216and diaphragm 214 also collectively define a passageway 248 of the valve200.

The stop member 218 is positioned generally between the diaphragm 214and base member 216 within the passageway 248. The stop member 218 hasan arm 250 and a plunger 252 having a plug 254 at a distal end of theplunger 252. The arm 250 is hingedly connected to the port member 212 bya flexible strap 256. The plunger 252 is connected to a distal end ofthe arm 250. The plunger 252 and the arm 250 are connected to a bottomsurface 258 of the diaphragm 214. The plug 254 is positioned through theinner opening 238 and abuts a bottom surface 260 of the base member 216to close the inner opening 238. The plunger 252 further has a pair ofresilient members 262. The resilient members 262 bias the plug 254against the bottom surface 260 of the base member 216 so that the plug254 abuts against the bottom surface 260 to close the opening 238.

In one preferred embodiment, the valve 200 utilizes the diaphragm cover220. The diaphragm cover 220 is positioned over the diaphragm 214. Thediaphragm cover 220 has a collar 264 positioned around the port member212 and connected proximately thereto. An opposite end of the diaphragmcover 220 is connected to the diaphragm 214 at the intermediate location236. The diaphragm cover 220 has a vent 266. If desired, the valve 200can also be equipped with the cap 221 that fits over the port member212. A tamper evident sealing member 270 can also be included. Thetamper evident sealing member 270 seals the cap 221 against the collar264 and gives a visual indication of whether the valve 200 has beentampered with or previously manipulated.

As discussed, in one preferred embodiment, the valve 200 is attached toa fluid container 211 having flexible first sidewall 222 and flexiblesecond sidewall 224. In this configuration and as shown in FIGS. 24 and25, the valve 200 is inserted between peripheral edges of the sidewalls222,224. The end 234 of the base member 216 is connected to an undersidesurface 272 of the first sidewall 222 at the intermediate location 236.The first sidewall 222 extends further wherein its peripheral edge isconnected to the valve 200 proximate the port member 212. In thisconfiguration, the portion of the first sidewall 222 extending from theintermediate location 236 to the connection proximate the port member212 comprises the diaphragm 214. The bottom or second sidewall 224 isconnected proximate the base member 216 at the port member 212 to sealthe valve 200 to the container 211. The inner opening 238 is incommunication with the inner chamber of the container 211 defined by theflexible sidewalls 222,224. It is understood that the valve 200 couldhave a diaphragm 214 constructed from a member separate from thesidewall 222.

Prior to operation of the valve 200, the cap 221 is secured to the valve200 by the tamper evident strip 270. As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, thetamper evident strip 270 is peeled away and the cap 221 is removed toexpose the port 212.

FIGS. 24 and 25 generally disclose operation of the valve 200. In aninitial state, and as shown in FIG. 24, the valve 200 is in a closedposition wherein the plug 254 is biased against the bottom surface 260to close the inner opening 238. In this first position, the passageway248 has a first volume V1. The volume extends generally from thejunction of the base member 216 and diaphragm 214 to the port member212. A user places their mouth over the port member 212 and sucks toprovide a partial vacuum through the passageway 248. The vacuum is apressure less than an ambient pressure. As shown in FIG. 25, the vacuumacts on the lower surface 258 of the diaphragm 214 wherein the forceassociated with the index pressure forces the diaphragm 214 downwards.This moves the plunger 252 downwards in the direction of arrow A,wherein the plug 254 is spaced away from the inner opening 238 thusopening the valve 200. In this second position, the passageway 248 has asecond volume V2. The second volume V2 is less than the first volume V1as the diaphragm moved closer to the base member 216. It is alsounderstood the area between the diaphragm 214 and the cover 220increases to a volume of V3 in this position. In this position, thefluid is allowed to flow from the container 211, through the inneropening 238 in the direction of arrow B, through the passageway 248 andout the orifice 230 and outer opening 226 to be consumed by the user.Thus, when a vacuum is applied, a force is applied to the housing 246 ina first direction (arrow A) in response to the vacuum thereby placingthe passageway 248 in the second position, wherein fluid flows throughthe passageway in a second direction generally shown as arrow C in FIG.25.

Once the vacuum is removed, the valve 200 returns to the first position.The resilient members 262 bias the plug 254 against the bottom surface260 of the base member 216 to close the inner opening 238 and thereforethe valve 200. Fluid that passes through the orifice 230, after thevacuum has been removed, is consumed by the user. Fluid that remains inthe passageway 248 when the vacuum is removed, however, does not dripfrom the valve 200. The change between the first volume V1 and thesecond volume V2 provides for an action that serves to withdraw thefluid from the outlet 238 back into the outlet passageway 229 such thatthe linear distance the fluid is withdrawn into the outlet passageway229 is equal to the difference between the volume V2 and the volume V1divided by the area of the outlet 238 which is sufficient to draw thefluid toward the passageway 248. The orifice 230 in the port member 212is sized such that surface tension of the fluid across the orifice 230maintains the fluid in the passageway 248 once the vacuum is removed.The molecules of the fluid will experience an inward force from theother fluid molecules wherein the fluid will act like an elastic sheetacross the orifice 230. Molecules at the edges of the orifice will beattracted to the surface of the disk-shaped member 228 defining theorifice 230. Thus, due to surface tension of the fluid, the fluidalready in the passageway 248 cannot pass through the orifice 230 untila vacuum is again applied. In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG.25, the port member 12 can have a venturi structure 231 generally at theport member 212.

It can be understood that in this valve configuration as disclosed inFIGS. 21-25, the passageway 248 of the valve 200 defines a first chamberwhile the container 211 defines a second chamber. The plug 254 and inneropening 238 define a simple valve. In an initial state, the uppersurface of the diaphragm 214 is subject to a first pressure, or indexpressure PI. The passageway 248 could also be subject to the indexpressure PI or some other first pressure. In one particular embodiment,the index pressure could be ambient pressure. The container 211 issubject to a container pressure PC. The container pressure could also beat ambient pressure. When a partial vacuum is applied by a user as shownin FIG. 25, the first chamber defined by the passageway 248 is subjectedto a second pressure P2 that is less than the index pressure PI. In thisstate, the valve moves from a closed position to an open positionwherein the fluid is allowed to flow through the outer opening 26. Inone preferred embodiment, the index pressure PI represents ambientpressure, which in an equilibrium state is present in the passageway 248and the container 211. In this initial state (FIG. 24), the indexpressure PI is generally under ambient pressure and the plug 254 closesthe opening 238. When the second pressure P2 is applied to thepassageway 248 that is less than ambient pressure, a vacuum is present.This results in a force acting on the diaphragm 214 as explained abovedrawing the diaphragm downwards wherein the plug 254 moves away from theopening 238 allowing fluid to pass through the opening 238. Thus, adifferential pressure is applied across the diaphragm 214 causing thevalve 200 to open and allow fluid to pass through the opening 238. Inone preferred embodiment, the pressure differential occurs from an indexpressure that is ambient pressure. Thus, the valve 200 is actuated byapplying a pressure less than ambient pressure. It is understood that apressure differential could also be applied from an index pressure notequal to ambient pressure. It is also understood that the vacuum istypically applied by a user reducing the pressure through thepassageway. The vacuum could also be applied by other means such as asyringe. A vacuum could also be applied by a pump or other mechanicalmeans. Finally, it is understood that the designations of “first,”“second” and “third” with respect to the chambers, pressures and valvepositions can be interchanged.

In an alternative method of valve actuation, a user can depress thediaphragm 214 through the cover 220 to move the plug 254 away from theinner opening 238. Fluid is then allowed to pass through the passageway248 and out the outer opening 226.

The valve components can be made from a variety of materials. Inpreferred form of the invention, the valve components are made from aninjection-molded process wherein the port member 12, base member 16 andportions of the stop member 18 are integrally molded. It is understood,however, that the valve components can be formed separately andconnected to one another.

It is understood that the valve 10 can be incorporated into a tubing. Aportion of the tubing can be flexible and provide the diaphragm 14. Anopposite portion of the tubing can be provided with an opening to be incommunication with the container 11. A stop member can be providedbetween the diaphragm 14 and opening.

Thus, a device 10 (as well as the other disclosed devices) is providedthat is simple in construction and use. As shown in FIG. 26, the valve10 connected to a container 11 can be easily actuated by a user merelyby applying a vacuum through the port member 12. Fluid is consumed asneeded and will not drip from the valve 10. In addition, due to theconstruction of the device 10, fluid cannot be expelled through thevalve 10 by squeezing the flexible sidewalls 22,24 of the container 11.To the contrary, squeezing the sidewalls 22,24 provides a greater sealas the plug 70 is forced further against the intermediate wall of thehousing. Thus, if the container 11 is accidently compressed, fluid willnot spray through the valve 10.

As shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, the valve 10 can be constructed wherein,for example, the diaphragm cover 20 can have a distinctive shape 180(FIGS. 27 and 28) or an indicia-bearing surface 182 (FIG. 28) forpromotional purposes or to provide for branding opportunities.

Containers utilizing the flowable material delivery device/valve of thepresent invention have a broad variety of uses and applications. Thevalve 10 is ideal for using with hot or cold drinks, as well asnon-carbonated drinks. Users can easily carry such a container 11 ontheir person (FIGS. 29 and 30). Containers 11 holding, for example,juice or milk, can also be used for children and infants (FIGS. 29 and32). The containers 11 can also have a hanger member 184 associatedtherewith. As shown in FIGS. 32 and 33 a, the hanger member 184 mayinclude a clamp 186 and a band 188 connecting the clamp 186 to thecontainer 11. The clamp 186 can be removably affixed to a supportmember. The support member can include a plurality of different types ofmembers such as in a vehicle (FIG. 33 a) or a stroller (FIG. 32) such asfor an infant. The container 11 can then be hung from the support memberto be grasped by a user. As shown in FIG. 34 c, the clamp 186 can alsobe directly attached to the container 11. The containers 11 can also beutilized in a number of different recreational settings (FIGS. 31 and35). The containers 11 are also ideal when taking part in activesporting activities (FIGS. 34 a-d). As shown in FIG. 34 b and 34 d, thecontainer 11 could have a flexible tubing 190 attached thereto and avalve 10 attached to a distal end of the tube 190 wherein the tube 190can be easily accessed hands-free such as when cycling or running. Thecontainer 11 can also be grasped with a single hand and the fluidsconsumed without further manual manipulation of the valve 10 (See FIG.26). The containers 11 are further ideal to use when traveling (FIGS. 33a-b).

The container 11 can further be designed to stand upright in apredetermined position. As shown in FIG. 33 b, the container 11 can alsohave a carrier 192 that can support the container 11 in a predeterminedposition. In one embodiment, the carrier 192 can have a base 194 andsidewalls 196. The carrier 192 may also have a handle 198. Finally, asshown in FIGS. 36 a and 36 b, the container 11 can be used by patientsin a hospital setting. As further shown in FIG. 36 b, an elongatedtubing 199 can be attached to the container 11 with the valve 10 on thedistal end of the tube. Uses also comprehended by the scope of theinvention include storage and dispensing of industrial chemicals,medicaments or any other flowable material.

The valve 10 provides several benefits. The container 11 and valve 10are low-cost and designed for single-use consumption wherein thecontainer 11 and valve 10 can be discarded when the container 11 isempty. The valve 10, however, could also be used in multi-useapplications. The valve 10 is suction-activated wherein the user candrink through the valve 10 as easily as with a conventional straw. Thehousing structure and valve function also prevent dripping from thevalve. The structure of the valve 10 prevents fluid from being drawnback into the container once through the internal opening. The structureof the valve 10 also resists pressure from the container 11 and cannotbe accidently activated. The valve 10 is not required to be recappedonce opened as the valve 10 returns to its closed position upon non-use.The valve components are easily manufactured such as by aninjection-molded process in one preferred embodiment. Because the valvecan be constructed from certain injection-moldable materials, the valvecan be operable through a broad range of temperatures and for extendedperiods of time.

It will be understood that the invention may be embodied in otherspecific forms without departing from the spirit or centralcharacteristics thereof. The present embodiments, therefore, are to beconsidered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and theinvention is not to be limited to the details given herein.

1. (Canceled)
 2. (Canceled)
 3. (Canceled)
 4. (Canceled)
 5. (Canceled) 6.(Canceled)
 7. (Canceled)
 8. (Canceled)
 9. (Canceled)
 10. (Canceled) 11.(Canceled)
 12. (Canceled)
 13. (Canceled)
 14. (Canceled)
 15. (Canceled)16. (Canceled)
 17. A valve comprising: a housing defining a passagewayhaving an outlet for a flowable material to pass therethrough and amember associated with said outlet independently providing a force tokeep said passageway closed in any orientation, the passageway having afirst volume when in a first position wherein the flowable material isnot allowed to pass through the passageway, and the passageway having asecond volume less than the first volume when in a second position, saidsecond position allowing the flowable material to pass through thepassageway, wherein the passageway is moveable from the first positionto the second position.
 18. The valve of claim 17 and a volumetransition in said passageway between said second position and saidfirst position causing said flowable material to retreat into saidpassageway.
 19. The valve of claim 18 wherein said volume transitioncauses said flowable material to retreat from said outlet.
 20. The valveof claim 19 wherein said retreat from said outlet being operative toretain said fluid in said passageway.
 21. The valve of claim 17 and thehousing having a port member, said port member defining an externalopening in communication with the passageway wherein the port member isadapted to actuate said valve from said first position to said secondposition.
 22. The valve of claim 17 wherein the passageway is moved fromthe first position to the second position by a pressure applied to thepassageway.
 23. The valve of claim 22 and said pressure applied to saidpassageway being a partial vacuum.
 24. The valve of claim 23 wherein,when said partial vacuum is applied, a force is applied to a memberassociated with said housing in a first direction in response to thepartial vacuum thereby placing the passageway in the second position.25. (Canceled)
 26. The valve of claim 23 wherein said partial vacuum isapplied by the mouth of a user.
 27. (Canceled)
 28. The valve of claim 21wherein the port member has an orifice.
 29. The valve of claim 28wherein the orifice is sized such that surface tension associated withthe flowable substance across the orifice prevents the flowablesubstance located within the passageway from passing through the orificewhen the partial vacuum is removed from the passageway.
 30. (Canceled)31. A valve comprising: a housing defining a passageway between anoutlet opening and an inner opening, and a member associated with saidoutlet opening and being deflectable from a first position to a secondposition associated with said housing; and a stop connected to thedeflectable member, the stop having a plug extensive to seal said inneropening, said seal occurring at the inner opening from a side oppositeof said outlet opening; wherein when the deflectable member is in thefirst position, said member independently provides a force to place thestop in sealing contact with the inner opening to close the inneropening in any orientation, and when the deflectable member is in thesecond position, the stop is spaced from the inner opening to open theinner opening.
 32. The valve of claim 31 and said stop passing throughsaid inner opening and said plug radially extensive from said stop sizedto close said inner opening.
 33. The valve according to claim 31 andsaid valve having an upstream side and a downstream side wherein saidplug is located toward said upstream side from said stop.
 34. The valveof claim 31 wherein the housing comprises a port member defining theoutlet opening.
 35. The valve of claim 31 wherein the deflectable membercomprises a diaphragm.
 36. The valve of claim 35 wherein the stop isconnected to the diaphragm and extends through the inner opening. 37.(Canceled)
 38. The valve of claim 31 wherein the stop member has aplunger having a plug at a distal end, the plug positioned at the inneropening to close the inner opening.
 39. The valve of claim 31 and saidmember serving to bias said stop to said first position.
 40. The valveof claim 38 wherein the plunger has a resilient member engaging asurface of the housing to bias the plug against the inner opening. 41.(Canceled)
 42. (Canceled)
 43. (Canceled)
 44. (Canceled)
 45. (Canceled)46. (Canceled)
 47. (Canceled)
 48. (Canceled)
 49. (Canceled) 50.(Canceled)
 51. (Canceled)
 52. (Canceled)
 53. (Canceled)
 54. (Canceled)55. (Canceled)
 56. (Canceled)
 57. (Canceled)
 58. (Canceled) 59.(Canceled)
 60. A container capable of dispensing a flowable material,the container comprising: a container wall defining a first chamberadapted to hold a flowable material, the container wall defining anopening; a valve defining a second chamber, the valve having an outletand a valve member; the valve member being positioned in the opening andindependently providing a force to keep said valve closed in anyorientation, the valve being moveable from a closed position to an openposition when the second chamber is subjected to a pressure less thanambient pressure wherein the flowable material flows from the firstchamber, through the opening and through the outlet.
 61. (Canceled) 62.(Canceled)
 63. (Canceled)
 64. (Canceled)
 65. (Canceled)
 66. A valvecomprising: a housing defining a passageway between an outlet openingand an inlet opening for a flowable material to pass therethrough, thehousing having an internal wall dividing the passageway into a firstchamber and a second chamber, the internal wall having an inner openingcommunicating the first chamber and the second chamber, the housinghaving an annular rim defining an aperture in communication with thefirst chamber; a diaphragm connected to the annular rim; a stopconnected to the diaphragm, the stop passing through the internalopening and having a flange in the second chamber, the flange in sealingcontact with the inner opening; the diaphragm being deflectable from afirst position to a second position, wherein when the deflectable memberis in the first position, the diaphragm independently provides a biasingforce to place the stop in sealing contact with the inner opening toclose the inner opening, and when the diaphragm member is in the secondposition, the stop is spaced from the inner opening to open the inneropening wherein the flowable material is allowed to pass through thepassageway.
 67. (Canceled)
 68. (Canceled)
 69. (Canceled)
 70. (Canceled)71. (Canceled)
 72. (Canceled)
 73. (Canceled)
 74. (Canceled) 75.(Canceled)
 76. (Canceled)
 77. (Canceled)
 78. (Canceled)
 79. (Canceled)80. (Canceled)
 81. (Canceled)
 82. (Canceled)
 83. A method of deliveringa flowable material from a container through a valve positioned in anopening of the container and in fluid communication with an outlet, themethod comprising: wherein the valve has an upstream side, placing saidflowable material in communication with said upstream side of saidvalve; wherein said valve is indexed to a first pressure and said valveindependently provides a bias to keep said valve closed in anyorientation and said valve has an outlet distal from said upstream side,applying a pressure to said outlet less than said first pressure to opensaid valve.
 84. (Canceled)
 85. (Canceled)
 86. (Canceled)
 87. (Canceled)88. (Canceled)
 89. (Canceled)
 90. (Canceled)
 91. A method of deliveringa flowable material, the method comprising: providing a housing defininga passageway between a first opening and a second opening, a portion ofthe housing being flexible from a first position to a second position;providing a stop member connected to the housing portion, wherein whenthe housing portion is in the first position, the housing portionindependently provides a force to the stop member to close the secondopening by sealing the second opening from a side opposite to thepassageway in any orientation, and when the housing portion is in thesecond position, the stop member is spaced from the second opening toopen the second opening; and applying a vacuum through the passagewaymoving said housing portion from said first position to said secondposition under influence of said vacuum.
 92. (Canceled)
 93. (Canceled)94. A valve comprising a member independently providing a first forceoperative to keep said valve closed, and a valve seat defined by aninner opening of said valve for sealing abutment with said member, and afirst pressure associated with said valve, said member being sensitiveto an index pressure; and an outlet at a second pressure, wherein theinner opening is sealed by said member from a side opposite to theoutlet when said valve is closed, said index pressure providing a secondforce in opposition to said first force when a differential between saidsecond pressure and said index pressure is provided to said member; andopening the valve when said second pressure is sufficiently less thanthe index pressure to overcome the first force.
 95. A valve comprising:a member independently providing a first force operative to keep saidvalve closed and a first pressure associated with said valve, saidmember being sensitive to an index pressure; and an outlet at a secondpressure, said index pressure providing a second force in opposition tosaid first force when a differential between said second pressure andsaid index pressure is provided to said member, and opening the valvewhen said second pressure is sufficiently less than the index pressureto overcome the first force, the valve being in communication with afluid source wherein opening said valve displaces said member in adirection towards the fluid source.
 96. A valve comprising: a housingdefining a passageway between an outlet opening and an inner opening,and a member associated with said outlet opening and being deflectablefrom a first position to a second position associated with said housing;and, a stop connected to the deflectable member, wherein when thedeflectable member is in the first position, said member independentlyprovides a force to place the stop in sealing contact with the inneropening to closed the inner opening, the stop being in fluidcommunication with a fluid source, wherein when the deflectable memberis moved to the second position, the stop is spaced from the inneropening in a direction towards the fluid source.